Can Immigrants Get Medicaid? Rules for Green Card Holders and Others

Whether you can get Medicaid depends on your immigration status and the state where you live. Green card holders usually qualify if they meet income and other requirements. Rules are stricter for other visa holders, and undocumented immigrants are generally not eligible in most states, though some states offer limited coverage.

Who qualifies for Medicaid as an immigrant

For Medicaid purposes, "immigrant" means anyone who is not a U.S. citizen. Each immigration status has different eligibility rules.

Green card holders

Green card holders (lawful permanent residents) can usually apply for Medicaid just like U.S. citizens. You'll need to meet your state's income and other requirements. In states that expanded Medicaid, most adults can qualify with income up to a certain level. Medicaid is free or low-cost health coverage run by each state with federal funding.

Other visa holders

If you're on a temporary visa—such as an H-1B work visa, student visa, or tourist visa—your eligibility for Medicaid depends on your state. Some states treat temporary visa holders like green card holders. Others have stricter rules. Your visa status may also affect whether you can sponsor someone else for immigration benefits, so check with an immigration attorney if you're unsure.

People with pending asylum cases

If you've filed for asylum and are waiting for a decision, you may qualify for Medicaid in your state. Rules vary by state. Some states allow asylum applicants to apply for Medicaid. Others don't. Contact your state Medicaid agency to learn what's available where you live.

Undocumented immigrants

Undocumented immigrants generally cannot get regular Medicaid. However, some states offer limited Medicaid coverage for emergency medical conditions only, regardless of immigration status. A few states also offer Medicaid to undocumented immigrants in specific groups—for example, young adults or older adults. Check with your state Medicaid agency to learn what's available.

Income limits for Medicaid in 2026

In states that expanded Medicaid, most adults aged 19–64 qualify with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level. Medicaid also covers children, pregnant people, older adults and people with disabilities; income limits differ by group and by state. Here are the 2026 federal poverty guidelines:

These are general figures. Your state's actual income limits for Medicaid may differ. The state income levels are based on decisions as of December 1, 2023.

How to apply for Medicaid

You can apply for Medicaid at any time of year. You have two options:

1. Apply directly through your state Medicaid agency
2. Apply through HealthCare.gov, which will send your application to your state

Applying is free. Only your state's Medicaid agency decides whether you qualify.

When you apply, you'll need to provide information about:

• Your income
• Your household size
• Your immigration status
• Other factors your state requires

To find your state's Medicaid agency and learn your state's specific rules, visit your state's website or use HealthCare.gov. If you need help, you can contact a local community health center or immigrant advocacy organization. Many offer free help with Medicaid applications.

What happens after you apply

Your state Medicaid agency will review your application and determine whether you qualify. It can take several weeks to get a decision. Your state will send you a notice telling you whether you're approved, denied, or if they need more information from you. If you're approved, your coverage can start right away or on a date your state specifies. If you're denied, you have the right to appeal.

Common mistakes to avoid

Don't worry that applying for Medicaid will hurt your immigration case or your ability to become a citizen later. Medicaid is not considered a "public charge," so it won't affect your path to citizenship or green card applications. However, other benefits may be considered public charges, so talk to an immigration attorney if you have questions about other benefits.

Make sure you have accurate information about your household size and income. Mistakes can delay your application or cause you to be denied. If your income or household changes, report it to your state right away.

Don't assume you know your state's rules. Medicaid rules vary significantly by state. Some states are more welcoming to immigrants than others. Even if you were denied in another state, you may qualify in your current state.

Help for children: CHIP

If you have children who don't qualify for Medicaid, they may qualify for CHIP (the Children's Health Insurance Program). CHIP gives low-cost health coverage to uninsured children in families that earn too much for Medicaid. Many states allow children of immigrants—including some undocumented immigrants—to apply for CHIP. Each state sets its own income limits and costs. You can apply at any time of year through your state or through HealthCare.gov.

Related help

To learn more about health coverage and other benefits, visit our Medicaid guide, use our benefits screener to see what you may qualify for, or contact us for help.

Summary

Your ability to get Medicaid as an immigrant depends on your immigration status and where you live. Green card holders usually qualify. The rules are different for visa holders, asylum applicants, and undocumented immigrants. Applying is free and can be done through your state or HealthCare.gov. Contact your state Medicaid agency to learn your specific options.